Police Arrest 40 Suspects, Seize Two Vessels in Crackdown on Oil Theft
By Adeyemi Adekunle
In a major crackdown on illegal oil theft and economic sabotage, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the military and other relevant security agencies, has arrested 40 suspects and seized two vessels in separate interceptions at the Ogbogoro Oil Field, Brass Area, and Ekeni Area of Southern-Ijaw in Bayelsa State.
The suspects, who were apprehended for conspiracy, tampering with an oil pipeline, illegal transportation of crude oil, dealing in crude and storing same without lawful authority or appropriate license amongst others, are expected to face charges related to economic sabotage and oil theft which have been filed against them.
The vessels used in the illegal activities have also been seized as part of the evidence against the suspects. The arraignment for suspects involved in the case of one of the vessels is scheduled for 26th February 2024, while the motion for interim forfeiture of the vessel and products contained therein will be heard on 19th February 2024.
According to preliminary investigations, numerous individuals and companies, including their foreign collaborators, have been indicted in the illegal activities, and will in due course be interrogated and caused to face the full wrath of the law.
The Inspector-General of Police has urged the public to be vigilant and report all suspicious activities related to oil theft and economic sabotage to the NPF, in line with its mandate as enshrined in Section 4 (d) of the Police Act 2020 empowering the Police to enforce all laws without any prejudice to the enabling Act of other security agencies.
The IGP stressed that the Police are committed to improved synergy with all relevant stakeholders, including other government security agencies, towards putting an end to the illegal activities of oil theft and economic sabotage in the country, and will continue to intensify its strategies and operations to curb same, while not hesitating to bring to justice any individual or group involved in such illegal activities.
Speaking on the arrest of the suspects, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that the Nigeria Police Force will not relent in its efforts to curb the menace of oil theft and economic sabotage, which has been a major drain on the country’s economy.
He added that the Police will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to justice.
The crackdown on illegal oil theft and economic sabotage is part of the government’s efforts to boost revenue and prevent the loss of critical resources to criminal elements. The government has been working to reform the oil and gas sector and has implemented measures to improve transparency and accountability in the sector.
The government has also been working to attract foreign investment into the sector and has launched initiatives to promote local content and increase the participation of Nigerian companies in the oil and gas value chain.
The crackdown on illegal oil theft and economic sabotage is expected to send a strong message to criminal elements involved in these activities and to restore confidence in the sector among investors and other stakeholders.
The Nigeria Police Force’s crackdown on illegal oil theft and economic sabotage underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s resources are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.
A Nigerian trained investigative journalist, who cover various news beats in Nigeria.
